Do you know some molds produce mycotoxin that may cause respiratory problems and neurological damage? Molds are types of fungi that not only cause health issues but also damage the structure of your home. To avoid these potential problems, preventing or eliminating mold growth is crucial. But how do you know that your home is mold-infected?
The most common type of household mold is found in damp and moist places around leaking water pipes, in the basement, between bathroom tiles, behind wallpaper, or under sinks. Often, mold can be easily seen on the walls and ceiling as ugly back-brown patches. However, sometimes, it grows in the hidden areas of the home that remain unnoticed. You may never realize your home is mold-infected unless it causes severe structural damage. Possibly, if your home was damaged by floodwater, there are chances of mold growth. Also, faulty plumbing is responsible for mold problems because moisture creates a breeding ground for mold.
Even if your home hasn’t been damaged by flood, there are still chances of mold presence in your house. To check if your home has mold, there are some subtle signs to look for. Read further to know the warning signs to watch out for that indicate your house could be harboring toxic mold.
Allergies and Other Health Issues
Mold can also cause allergic reactions and other health-related issues if left untreated. If there’s mold in your home, you may experience frequent colds, perpetually runny noses, and sneezing fits. How do I know if my allergy-like symptoms are caused by mold in my home? The simple answer to this question is that mold is the culprit if your allergy worsens after spending time in a particular room or when you return home. Mold can cause coughing, sneezing, itchy throat, or watery eyes.
Strange Odor
If your air conditioning or heating system has started smelling strange, possibly it’s because of the mold. Sometimes, mold grows around the air conditioning units because these are damp, dark, and exposed to warm temperatures. During winter, some people place the air conditioner in the basement, which increases the possibility of mold growth. Besides that, you may also notice a musty smell in some particular part of your home. This means that even if mold is not visible, the moldy smell is sufficient to tell its presence. If you notice any unusual smell consistently, inspect your home thoroughly with a mold removal specialist.
Peeling Wallpaper
Other signs of mold presence include discolored walls or peeling wallpaper. If your wallpaper has started peeling, bubbling, or cracking, it means there is moisture in the wall, which results in mold growth. Even if you notice slight discoloration, you should touch the wall to check if it feels damp or warped. Most of the time, mold growth is obvious. You can see unusual spots on the walls and ceiling. However, some people mistakenly believe these spots are just soot or dirt. Make sure you never avoid any sign of mold growth because small mold patches can quickly spread and soon become a bigger problem.
